Dolphins claim ex-Broncos tight end A.J. Derby off waivers

The Dolphins claimed former Broncos tight end A.J. Derby off waivers this week, just a few days before they will host Denver in Week 13. Miami waived receiver Rashawn Scot to make room for Derby on their roster.

Derby, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, may not be able to play this week, but he could — and probably will — help the Dolphins prepare for the Broncos’ offense (not that they should need much help: Denver is averaging 17.9 points per game, seventh-worst in the league).

Derby (6-4, 255 pounds) entered the NFL with the Patriots as a sixth-round pick out of Arkansas in the 2015 NFL draft. New England traded Derby to the Broncos in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick in 2016.

During his 15 games in Denver, Derby caught 35 passes for 384 yards and two touchdowns. The Broncos placed Derby on injured reserve on Nov. 18 but released him ten days later after reaching an injury settlement. He is now the second ex-Bronco tight end on Miami’s roster, joining former Pro Bowler Julius Thomas.